Best Tourist SIM Card for South Africa
Short-term visitor
1-5GB per week
Data Needed
1-30 days
Typical Stay
$10-30 total
Budget Range
12+
eSIM Options
What Tourists Need in South Africa
Key Requirements
- Easy purchase at airport
- No ID requirements
- Prepaid/no contract
- Good data for 1-4 weeks
Top Priorities
ConvenienceEasy activationNo commitment
Our Top Recommendation
Get an eSIM Before You Go
For tourists visiting South Africa, an eSIM is the most convenient option. Buy before you travel, activate on arrival, and keep your home number active.
Compare eSIM ProvidersBest eSIM Plans for Tourists
BEST FOR TOURISTS
Dent
$4.99
1GB / 365 days
- Blockchain-based
- Data marketplace
- No expiry data packages
Airalo
$9.00
1GB / 7 days
- 190+ countries coverage
- No physical SIM needed
- Keep your WhatsApp number
Best Local SIM Plans for Tourists
MTN
Tourist SIM
ZAR 399.00/month
20GB data • 120 mins
- Airport stores
- WhatsApp bundle
- Easy RICA
Cell C
Giga Prepaid
ZAR 299.00/month
30GB data • 200 mins
- Affordable data
- Home connect bundles
- WiFi calling
Telkom
FreeMe Tourist
ZAR 349.00/month
25GB data • Unlimited mins
- All networks minutes
- WhatsApp free
- LTE coverage
Don't Forget Travel Insurance
Protect your South Africa trip with travel medical insurance. SafetyWing starts at just $45/month.
Get Travel Insurance QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
What's the best phone plan for tourists in South Africa?
For tourists visiting South Africa, we recommend plans with 1-5GB per week data. eSIM or airport tourist SIMs are the most convenient.
Should I get an eSIM or physical SIM for South Africa?
eSIM is highly recommended for tourists. It offers instant activation, keeps your home number active, and requires no store visits.
How much data do tourists typically need in South Africa?
Tourists typically need 1-5GB per week. This covers maps, social media, and messaging.
What should tourists budget for phone service in South Africa?
Budget $10-30 total for phone service in South Africa. This is usually a one-time cost for your trip.